As believers, we often find ourselves struggling with feelings of condemnation and guilt. Satan, the accuser, constantly reminds us of our past mistakes and shortcomings, making us feel trapped and unworthy. However, as children of God, we must remember that we are not defined by our past but by the love and forgiveness of our Heavenly Father.

In John 8:1–11, we see a powerful example of Jesus’ love and forgiveness. When the woman caught in adultery was brought before Him, Jesus could have condemned her, but instead, He chose to forgive her and offer her a new start. His words, “Neither do I condemn you. “Go and sin no more” (John 8:11), serve as a potent reminder that we have power to overcome our sinful nature because of God’s love and forgiveness.

As believers, we often strive to earn God’s love and forgiveness by pretending to be better than we are. We put on a mask of perfection, hiding our true selves from the world. However, God’s love is not based on our performance but on His character. He loves us in our messiness, not in our pretence. It is only when we feel God’s love in our darkest moments that we can begin to change and overcome our struggles.

The Bible reminds us that “there is no more condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). This truth should bring us great comfort and freedom. We are no longer bound by our past mistakes but are free to live a new life in Christ.

As we walk in the light of God’s love, we can experience the power of forgiveness and overcome the accusations of Satan. We can live a life of freedom and joy, unencumbered by the weight of guilt and condemnation. We are loved, not because of who we are, but because of who God is. His love is not based on our worthiness but on His character.

Moreover, when we truly understand and experience God’s love, we begin to see ourselves and others in a new light. We no longer view ourselves as unworthy or unlovable, but as beloved children of God. We also begin to see others not as enemies or strangers but as fellow human beings who are loved and valued by God.

As we live out our faith, we must remember that our worth and identity are not defined by our past mistakes or current struggles; rather, they are defined by God’s Word. Let us hold on to this truth and live our lives with confidence and joy, knowing that we are loved and forgiven. 

God’s love for us also extends to our relationships with others. When we experience God’s love, we are empowered to love others in the same way. We can forgive those who have wronged us, and we can show compassion and kindness to those who are struggling.

As we close, let us hold on to the truth that God loves us, not in spite of our flaws, but because of who He is. We walk in the freedom and joy that comes from knowing we are loved and forgiven. We are not alone in our struggles but are part of a community of believers who walk in the light of God’s love. Such love is the foundation of our faith and the key to overcoming our struggles.

Diving deeper into our series on “Being Out and About for Jesus Christ,” let’s explore the journey of arising in our calling. Last week, we discussed how God has set you apart and covered you with His righteousness, empowering you for the noble calling before you.

Your disciplined life showcases God’s grace in holiness. Arising in your calling has various aspects that should ignite your enthusiasm. Firstly, you are called to make Jesus known to the world.

Like Moses who led the Israelites, Jonah who preached repentance, and Daniel who displayed godly wisdom as a government official, you are an heir of this glorious calling to share the Gospel by sharing your testimony.

Looking at Daniel 1:4-20, it becomes clear that taking care of your body and enriching your mind with knowledge relevant to your calling is crucial. How you present yourself and your intellect plays important roles in interactions.

As a vessel of God, even if you fall short, God provides His grace and supernatural gifts to complement your abilities. He equips you beyond your capabilities, as shown in Daniel 1:20.

Challenges are common, especially at the beginning of your calling, like Daniel faced. Consider the ways you might stumble and remember that God, who loves you, provides a way out when you endure temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13).

In your divine calling, God positions people who will show you favor as you step into new places. Even in the face of resistance, God can turn hearts in your favor when you seek refuge in prayer (Daniel 2:26-28).

Lastly, remember not to take credit for your achievements. Give glory to God, and in situations where you’re tempted to seek glory for yourself, point people back to God.

Your light has an impact when you give glory to Him. Be kingdom-minded, ensuring that your success benefits those around you, just as Daniel demonstrated in his calling.

Understanding the nuances of God’s calling and its impact on our lives is an enlightening journey that empowers us to embrace our calling. While we each possess unique attributes and flaws, God’s call is intentional, and tailored to our distinct qualities. God’s knowledge of those He calls demonstrates His approval of the unique assignment He has prepared. This is crucial for bearing witness to Christ’s presence, allowing our light to shine, and guiding others to Him. The stories of Jonah and Job provide profound insights into what it means to embrace our divine calling.

In the opening verse of the book of Jonah, we find a precise description of who he is. This underscores that God’s callings are never arbitrary; He knows precisely whom He calls. God, in His infinite wisdom, considers every strength and weakness when making His selection. Just as God’s meticulous design is evident in creation and humanity, He’s also aware of every detail in the assignment He has entrusted to you. This knowledge carries significant implications.

Firstly, being known by God is a testament to His approval of you as His chosen instrument. He will not select someone He does not know. In fact, God knows you better than you know yourself, and if He has chosen you, it’s because He has wholeheartedly approved of you (as seen in the story of Moses in Exodus 3 & 4). Secondly, this knowledge enables Him to appoint you for a specific task, making use of your weaknesses for a divine purpose. Therefore, do not underestimate yourself or doubt your ability to fulfill what God has called you to do. He’s considered every aspect of your being, knowing that even your weaknesses will serve a purpose in your assignment (see Jeremiah 1:4-5).

In verse 2, the word “arise” holds particular significance. In this context, “arise” means to stand up, embrace, and walk in the gifts and calling that God has bestowed upon us. Ephesians 5:14 emphasizes that there is light for those who arise in their calling. Moreover, Matthew 5:16 states that your good works are only visible when your light shines. It’s crucial that Christ’s light radiates through your actions. Job’s introduction in Job 1:1 and 8 highlights that his light preceded any mention of his possessions or abilities. This light is the fear of God; thus, your primary attribute should be the fear of God.

Furthermore, your light should shine brightest outside the church, where darkness is most prevalent. This not only glorifies God in your success but also ensures that people see Christ rather than yourself. Consider Joseph’s story, where the Lord’s presence with him led to his success (as seen in Genesis 39:3). This can only happen when people know you walk in the fear of God, intensifying the brilliance of your light.

The fear of God is intimately linked with holiness. Holiness doesn’t imply the absence of sin but rather being set apart from the common. The challenge isn’t being in the world but being of the world, blending in with others (as mentioned in John 17:14-15). You can only make a meaningful impact when the difference is unmistakable. This must be evident outside the confines of the church, as people will follow your example when they perceive this difference.

Sanctification, the process of being made holy, equips you for a special role in God’s plan. God uses individuals who stand their ground and find their foundation in Him. It’s essential to differentiate between righteousness and holiness. Righteousness is a fixed position, while holiness is progressive. It’s something you grow into, demanding discipline. However, remember that discipline isn’t a legalistic constraint but a guiding principle that leads you toward the goal of holiness. Strive for a harmonious balance in your pursuit of holiness.

In conclusion, making a genuine impact in the world necessitates being set apart to draw others to Christ. You must rise in your calling by revering God and embracing holiness. Extremes can hinder your calling, as Satan is an extremist, whereas God embodies balance. Disruption of this balance leads to disharmony. Satan may push you to extremes. On one hand, you might become overly “religious,” making it hard to connect with people you want to help find salvation. On the other hand, you could swing too far in a “carnal” direction, unintentionally getting in the way of others. Striking a balance between holiness and being relatable is essential.

Consider Peter’s story (you can find it in John 14:1-10). Initially, he was too humble to let Jesus wash his feet. Then, he went to the other extreme, asking for a full-body wash. Jesus explained that foot-washing was enough because he was already clean. This story highlights the importance of finding a balance. So, aim for that harmonious equilibrium as you pursue a holy life.
As you heed His call, remember that He knows you intimately and has equipped you for a purpose that transcends your individuality, enabling you to shine your light even brighter in an increasingly dark world.

The notion of “provision” is central to the Kingdom of God. When it comes to God’s provision, it is not about what we do but about where we stand. Our right standing in God guarantees His provision more than our skills or hard work can achieve. In other words, our position in God’s Will comes before our efforts when it comes to our provision in the Kingdom of God.

When we align ourselves with God’s perfect Will for us in a season, we position ourselves to receive His provision. With that said, there is no provision without alignment in our position. A lack of position will manifest as a rush to pursue many avenues in order to find provision in many pursuits, which is hardly what God wants for us. However, when we stay in a God-inspired position that meets the requirements of our needs, we benefit from a clear direction that adjusts our posture.

The story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32 illustrates well that staying in the sonship of God is all we need to be provided for. Likewise, we operate in our position of children of God knowing our needs are already catered for. As we fall short of God’s instructions by ourselves, Jesus Christ has clothed us in His righteousness so that we are positioned to receive provision in God (2 Corinthians 5: 21).

Our only task as sons and daughters is to seek first and foremost the Kingdom of God, and everything else will be provided for (Matthew 6:33).

It is counterproductive to seek provision while being out of position (see James 4:3). That is why a person out of position will always be out of God’s provision as it is withheld. To elicit our position as sons and daughters, we must abide in God’s Word and let it abide in us as well, so that our desires align with His Will (see Psalms 37: 4).

Following are the six keys that position us for provision in God. Our relationship with God is the first key. It flows from Jesus Christ’s Redemption, which allows us to have a relationship with God (see John 3:16 and Ephesians 1:5). We learn from John 6:8-11 and Matthew 6:9 that we receive provision when we sit and rest in God. The bread God provides inevitably follows when His Will and Kingdom are established in our lives. It is pointless to go out of position to toil for “bread” that will perish when the Father gives imperishable bread to those who are positioned.

Since God uses people to provide for His children, our relationship with people is also important. God works in such a way that He uses man in order to help us get to our destiny and to help us carry our burdens along the way. For this, He has graced our journeys with two types of relationships: destiny helpers and burden bearers, the people who stand by us in difficulties. The story of Christ demonstrates that even He had burden bearers in the likes of Mary Magdelein and John (Matthew 3:13; John 19:25).

Meekness is the second key. This is a combination of humility and teachability. A person who is meek is always in the position to receive from God (see Matthew 5:5). Hence, God resists the proud and exalts the humble (see James 4:6-10). Beyond curing us from worldliness, humility makes it possible for us to submit to God.

It also creates in us a teachable spirit that allows us to listen to God’s commands regarding how to live. Lest the earth and everything in it close up to us, cutting off provision (read Leviticus 18:26-28).

Brokenness, the third key, is an attitude of always needing God no matter where one stands. It is the attitude that enables us to never grow independent of God no matter how high we rise. Psalms 51:17 illustrates how brokenness is a posture to be positioned in.

Competence is the fourth key. In order of priority, we need to seek the Kingdom, but when dealing with the world, we need to be competent in what we may offer the world in order to cause change. Therefore, competence is to be pursued (see Ecclesiastes 10:10). The Holy Spirit is an advantage over our competence. Hence, the most effective way to serve is to serve the world with the gifts God has given us.

Tithing represents the fifth key. In Malachi 3:8, the number “ten” means “all”. Thus, when we give 10% of our tithe, we are actually giving God our all. Additionally, when we don’t tithe, we are not just robbing God but ourselves too (read Malachi 3:8-10 and 1 Corinthians 6:19). Money has power, but when the tenth is offered to God in our tithes, He gives us authority over the rest.

Lastly, we stay in a position for provision through gratitude. This does not necessarily refer to saying “thank you” but rather first acknowledging someone’s contribution to us through action, honor, and reverence. Deuteronomy 8:17-18 teaches us that a person who is grateful will always be provided for.

In conclusion, provision is rooted in the notion of one’s positioning within the Kingdom of God. The significant role of one’s stance in relation to God’s Will provides the foundation for the blessings and divine abundance we have in Christ. By considering the above-mentioned keys, we can seek not only fulfillment for ourselves in God but also a deeper understanding of our relationship with God. Remember, provision is not solely an outcome of one’s actions but a product of being in alignment with God’s Will. Therefore be positioned for provision.

There is a significant movement of God in the last days known as the Benjamin generation. This generation becomes relevant during a global salvation crisis, similar to the story in Genesis 43. Benjamin, whose name means “son of my right hand,” was the youngest son, and the Benjamin generation includes the last generation of Christians before the rapture. (1 Thessalonians 4: 13-18 and 1 Corinthians 15: 50-54).

Understanding the mandate of the Benjamin generation requires looking at the relationship between Jesus Christ, Joseph, and Benjamin. Drawing parallels between Joseph and Christ reveals their shared experiences of rejection by their own families. Both Joseph and Christ eventually became the bread of life for those who rejected them – in Egypt and on the cross, respectively (see John 6: 35-36 and Genesis 43:31).

Joseph and Benjamin, being the last two sons of Jacob and sharing Rachel as their mother, represented the final generation among Jacob’s twelve sons. Analyzing Joseph’s interactions with Benjamin in Genesis 43 sheds light on how Jesus intends the Benjamin generation to operate during the last days, particularly in times of crisis.

Genesis 43 shows that without Benjamin’s presence in Joseph’s dealings with his brothers, the crisis escalates, favor is lost, and the consequences become more severe. This situation is linked to the concept of grace, symbolized by the number 5 in the Bible. Several clues in the Bible points to an account of Grace as symbolized by the number 5 in the stories of Noah, Ruth and King David (see Genesis 43: 34, Genesis 5: 28-32, Ruth 2: 10).
Just as Benjamin received five times more, God intends to use the fivefold of grace to address the moral and spiritual decline in the world.

As members of the Benjamin generation, both young and old, understanding our identity and purpose in these times is crucial. We are tasked with bringing light to a world in darkness and playing a critical role in helping those called according to God’s purpose overcome the crisis.

Similar to how Benjamin received five changes of clothes from Joseph, Jesus Christ has clothed this generation with an overarching anointing that guarantees prosperity through His presence. As we learn from Joseph’s story, prosperity is not defined by our physical condition, nor is wealth determined by what we claim ours, but it is partnership with God that gives good success to the Benjamin generation, whether in ministry or in the various domains of life; testifying to the unbeliever of the assurance of God’s absolute involvement in the lives of those who choose to serve Him in these last days.

Seeking God’s kingdom first is essential for members of the Benjamin generation. Anyone can seek at their convenience (when it works for them), but we are called to seek first the kingdom of God, as this is a posture rather than a mere practice (read Matthew 6: 33).

Reading Psalms 103:5, we understand that what characterizes the Benjamin generation’s youth, it is the fact that God renews it. Young and old are therefore qualified to serve God and He is willing to use us to share the Gospel. Our relationship with Jesus Christ is far more valuable than anything the world offers.

The story of the Samaritan woman at the well teaches us that during difficult times, people tend to divert their attention from reality by engaging in a variety of activities that are disguised as leisure.

However members of the Benjamin generation, driven by love and compassion, respond to people’s needs with the same grace and compassion that Jesus showed to sinners. They understand the world’s attempts to find satisfaction outside of Christ and extend His salvation to those in need.

In summary, the Benjamin generation is marked by love, compassion, and a deep commitment to serving God’s Kingdom. They live in the finished work of Christ, extending grace and salvation to a fallen world. It’s an invitation to claim your place in this generation and be part of a powerful movement of God.

Receiving Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior means actively being out and about for the Kingdom of God. This involves a genuine passion for and involvement in the salvation of others. A born-again Christian willingly participates in various ministry activities, such as sharing the Gospel, caring for the sick, engaging in youth events, evangelistic campaigns, or contributing tithes and offerings.

When we ultimately receive Christ, His position in our life is often challenged by people or things in a way that clashes with His perfect will for us. However, when we encounter challenges to our faith or commitment to Christ, we must know how to overcome them as we serve Him.

Contrary to popular belief, it’s often the things we hold dear that can challenge our surrender to Jesus Christ. For example, our wealth, as mentioned in Matthew 19:20-21, or our family and close relationships, as highlighted in Exodus 32:29, may stand between us and our growth in Christ. Other potential challenges may include our personal goals and desires.

Until we recognize that Jesus Christ’s authority and His voice must have precedence over any other voices we’ve followed throughout our lives, it will be challenging to fully embrace our salvation journey of serving Him.

Being out and about for Christ also includes contributing to the Kingdom of God through service and worship. God, as our loving Father, not only provides for our daily needs but also grants us wisdom. He uses times of prosperity to prepare us for times of need, as seen in Genesis 41:28-36. Giving can be challenging because it may seem like God always asks us to give during inconvenient times. However, when God calls us to give, He generously blesses us in return.

Luke 16:9 illustrates the mindset Jesus wants His followers to adopt: using our resources selflessly to win souls for the Kingdom of God.

This not only garners favor among people on Earth but also accumulates treasures of eternal value in God’s Kingdom. Being out and about also means treating people well, even when we don’t immediately benefit from them. We may wonder, “Out and about but where?” Our natural inclination is to move away from crisis situations, but wisdom in crisis involves listening to where God wants us to be.

When God instructs us to stay in a crisis, He equips us to thrive, often to the point of stirring jealousy in those who sought solutions outside of God. Our plans should be a means to God and not represent an end in themselves (Proverbs 16:9).

In conclusion, being out and about calls us to invest in the Kingdom of God. As the Bible says, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Safeguarding our hearts, as advised in Proverbs 4:23, entails investing our treasures in matters of God. This is the key to being good stewards of the resources in our lives, submitting them to God. Advancing the Kingdom of God is the most significant investment we can ever make.

As we delve deeper into the camp’s theme of “STAY IN,” our focus now shifts to understanding what it truly means to STAY IN the presence of God, why it’s essential, and how we can achieve it. To STAY IN, we must not only remain in His presence but also continually dwell in the revelation of who Jesus Christ is, through the diligent study of His Word, and walk consistently in the Spirit.

Psalm 91:1-2 – A Glimpse into God’s Presence

Let’s begin by exploring the profound verses of Psalm 91:1-2 [NKJV], which shed light on the concept of God’s presence. The term “dwelling” in verse 1 implies not merely visiting but residing—a sense of permanence. It’s not just any dwelling but God’s secret place, a unique and intimate space. Verse 2, a declaration of trust and safety, stems from a deep revelation of God’s refuge. This revelation-driven trust sets the foundation for remaining in His presence and walking in the Spirit.

The Dual Nature of God’s Presence

God created us in His image (Genesis 1:26), making us spiritual beings. To stay in God’s presence, we must understand where His dwelling place truly lies. Many are taught to seek God only in church or quiet environments, but walking in the Spirit can unveil a deeper truth—God’s presence is not solely external but also within us. God desires to dwell among us and within us, irrespective of our feelings. Jesus assures that as long as His Word abides in us, He remains with us (1 John 3:24). This revelation reminds us that God’s presence transcends both external and internal realms, reinforcing the importance of staying in revelation.

Walking in the Spirit – A Spiritual Journey

Galatians 5:16 introduces the concept of walking in the Spirit, a spiritual journey beyond the physical realm. While “walking” often suggests a physical act, understanding the spiritual context is crucial. It involves our spirit, God’s Spirit, and a spiritual presence. We cannot accomplish this journey alone; hence Jesus sent us the Holy Spirit as our Helper (John 14:26). The Holy Spirit, the source of revelation, reveals the hidden mysteries of God.

The Role of Revelation in Our Walk

Revelation is key to understanding our spiritual walk. Proverbs 4:5 advises us to seek wisdom and, above all, seek understanding. Asking “why” prompts us to seek Christ for His guidance and instruction. Love is intrinsic to the Spirit’s work in us, for God is love. Thus, love is a vital aspect of our spiritual walk (1 Corinthians 13:1). God’s saving power flows through His love, emphasizing its importance.

The Battle of the Mind

Romans 8:5-7 highlights the battle between the flesh and the spirit. Those who focus on carnal things are at odds with spiritual matters. The fruits of the Spirit exemplify a spiritual walk. To walk in the Spirit, we must resist the lure of worldly pursuits and prioritize spiritual growth (Matthew 6:33). Our value is revealed through what we seek first.

Awareness of God’s Nature

Understanding God’s nature is essential for remaining conscious of His presence. Walking in the Spirit provides insight into God’s desires and plans. Dwelling in the secret place of the Most High, devoid of fear, allows us to navigate even the darkest valleys with confidence (Psalm 91:7). Revelation from God’s Word enables us to perceive His glory in all circumstances.

Spiritual Conflict and Victory

Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that our battle is spiritual, not physical. We can command spiritual forces in Jesus’ name. Being carnally minded makes us vulnerable while being spiritually minded makes us the devil’s target. However, we have the authority to overcome (Psalms 91:13). God’s Spirit raises a standard when the enemy attacks.

The Importance of God’s Word

Joshua 1:8 underscores the significance of remaining in God’s Word. Meditating on His Word enhances our understanding. The Word of God dwelling within us enriches our meditation and facilitates hearing God’s voice.

Fruits of the Spirit

Finally, Galatians 5:22-23 demonstrates that walking in the Spirit leads to the production of spiritual fruits. These fruits originate from God, and without Him, we cannot manifest them.

In Conclusion

To STAY IN His presence, we must have the willingness to stay. It involves immersing ourselves in His Word, seeking revelation, and walking in the Spirit. Let us remain in revelation, for without the Word of God, there is no revelation. Without His presence, there is no revelation. So, stay rooted in revelation and walk in the Spirit, for therein lies our spiritual journey and victory.

Staying in the presence of God means that we have to enter into it in the first place. The Church is one place where we enter the presence of God. As we will learn in the following texts, Jesus Christ, the only way to the Father, holds the key to the presence of God.

The next part will help us shine a light on Jesus Christ and the key to staying in the presence of God. This will also be an opportunity to discover what is in for those who stay in the presence of God (see Psalms 91). The key of David is given to the Faithful Church of Philadelphia by Jesus Christ in His divine authority when He addresses the seven churches in the book of Revelations (Revelations 3:11). The question of “what is the key of David” then emerges. By comparing Matthew 16:19 to Revelation 3:7, 8, and 12, we can see that Jesus Christ not only possesses the key of David but also the keys of the kingdom [of God].

These Scriptures also teach us that anytime the keys are mentioned, they are always in relation to the Temple of God and the City of Jerusalem, and hence the presence of God. It is also vital to comprehend that a key provides access to what may have been present but could not be used until it is “unlocked”.

Now, keep this in mind, for such is the anointing residing in the concept of keys. Whilst 2 Samuel 7 reveals to us that the key of David is King Solomon, whom God ordained to build a Temple in Jerusalem in the Old Testament, we learn that the keys of the Kingdom that Christ gives to Simon Peter – those pertaining to His Temple like in the Old Testament – empowers His Church or any “two or three people gathered in His Name” to bind or loosen things on earth with God’s Authority. In the New Testament, the power of the keys of the Kingdom applies both to the Church on earth and the New Jerusalem to come, each representing the Kingdom of God (Revelations 3: 7-13).

With the keys of the kingdom, we are empowered to make disciples of all nations, to call upon the Heavenly hosts in the fight against the principalities of this world, and to proclaim the healing of the sick and salvation of the lost.

What then grants such authority in the Keys of the Kingdom of God?
The answer resides in Him who holds the keys in both instances: Jesus-Christ. The revelation of the identity of Jesus Christ is the strongest foundation for one to stay in the presence of God. When we decipher the identity of Jesus Christ, we decipher our own identity in Him, and this always brings us to a place of thanksgiving. Whilst many confuse Jesus-Christ with a prophet whether it be John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, or any other prophet, He still asks you today, “Who do you say I am?” in the same manner He asked His disciple Simon Peter (read Matthew 16: 14-16).

According to Jewish theology, Peter’s statement that “You are the Christ, Son of the Living” suggested that Jesus was equal to God because God the Father and the Son have the Same Substance (see John 5:18 and Matthew 16: 18). For this reason, the Jews attempted to kill Jesus in John 5:18.

Today, As followers of Jesus, we abide in the knowledge that He is God, walking in the revelation of that knowledge and abounding in the Grace of it, for “no one knows the Father except the Son. Nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him” (Matthew 11:27).

In conclusion, unpacking the mystery of Jesus Christ reveals that He is equal to God the Father. The revelation of the knowledge of who Christ is allows us to STAY IN the fullness of God! The Church of God received its Authority in heaven and earth through Christ (Matthew 28:18). As we gather in His Name, He has empowered us as His Church through the Keys of His Kingdom. As we sit in His presence, we are of those who dwell in His shelter, He remains our refuge and fortress forever (Psalms 91), Hallelujah!

Keeping your knees down is a representation of prayer, (being consistent in prayer). When it comes to this principle, it is a matter of the heart’s posture more than the physical act of kneeling. The state of your heart is then reflected in your attitude when it comes to prayer. This is because, as the Prophet Isaiah states in Isaiah 29:13, “People honour and worship God with their lips; however, their hearts are far from Him”. Therefore, people who truly seek God with their hearts know the significance of prayer, which is one of the ways to remain closer to God.

Prayer is defined as an “invocation or act that seeks to activate a rapport with an object of worship through deliberate communication”. Furthermore, its etymology is derived from the Latin word “precaria“, which means ‘devout petition to God or an object of worship’. However, beyond these definitions, for Christians, prayer is more than that because it is a conversation with God which also involves interaction with the spiritual realm (Ephesians 6:18). To further illustrate this, in 2 Kings 18, Elijah called down fire from heaven to prove that the Lord God was real.

It’s also seen in John 11 where Jesus calls the spirit of Lazarus back to life, raising him from the dead. Indeed, this goes to show that prayer isn’t just a dialogue, but it is a powerful and effective tool in the life of a Christian.

The question that is often asked is, if God knows everything and can do anything, why should one pray? In answering this question, it is important to understand that prayer is a spiritual activity, and God is spirit, thus, prayer establishes communion with Him. He is our Father, which indicates relationship—and that is what God desires to have with us through prayer, and with every relationship, conversation is involved. And whenever a relationship exists, there is a platform for asking and receiving. Throughout scripture, God urges us to ask that we may receive; in other words, although God is omniscient, if we do not ask, we will not receive because it takes away the essence of the father-child relationship that He seeks to have with us. Jeremiah 33:3, says that God has remarkable things to reveal about things to come and this can be relevant to things involving the work of God in our lives today, be it, our careers, marriage or academics. However, we do not receive these things because we do not ask (see James 4:3). 

To further illustrate the importance of prayer, look at the life of Jesus Christ, although He was God, prayed constantly (Mark 1:35). He modelled a lifestyle for us to follow, and that is a lifestyle that values prayer. Furthermore, even our forefathers [in faith] prayed, for instance, King David. An example of one of his many prayers can be read in Psalm 5, being the King that He was, he cried out to God in prayer, bringing forth his requests.

The early church also prayed, and prayer is what carried them. It is not a gift of the Holy Spirit that some possess, and others don’t, so it is for everyone. Acts 1:14 tells us that the Apostles and several others met together and were constantly united in prayer.

Just like them, we ought to pray together with and for each other consistently and without ceasing. Moreover, the Apostles themselves requested to be prayed for as well. We see this with Paul in Romans 15:30-33, where he urges the church to join him in prayer over his trip to Judea. Additionally, when we pray for others, we partner up with God and His will. In Acts 12:1-18, while Peter was in prison, the church prayed earnestly for him. The power of interceding for one another was then the result of Peter’s release from prison. Paul further goes on urging us to pray for all people including those who are in authority for peace and a godly life which is God’s will for all of us (see 1 Timothy 2:1-3).

Hence, praying for one another does not depend upon titles or experiences, because all of us are called to intercede for one another including ourselves as well. When approaching God, we gain confidence in our spiritual journey with Him. Prayer assists us, in keeping us in alignment with His Will, and He will be faithful in giving us what we enquire from Him (see John 14:13). The word “keep” in the title, gives the notion of continuity, that is, after prayer there is prayer. Praying is not a one-time activity, or something that was invented recently to keep us busy. For many generations prayer has been proven to work, thus, there is no reason to treat prayer casually. Jesus Christ tells a parable in Luke 18:1-8; about a widow who had repeatedly cried out for justice before a judge until she received it.

The lesson here is about persistently praying and not giving up until you see something and even after that, continue praying.

In Isaiah 62:6-7, the prophet speaks of the watchmen who were posted to pray day and night until Jerusalem was restored to its glory. Through constant prayer, we can be watchmen of our families and loved ones. In 1 Kings 18, Elijah sent out his servant seven times to search for a rain cloud for this is what he was praying for, until it eventually happened. Here we see that Elijah had stayed on watch free of distraction because he stayed in prayer. 

When praying it is important to stay focused and not get distracted or reluctant. Distractions can also include sin, for the flesh is weak and that is why we should pray constantly [this is a way to overcome our flesh] so that we may not fall into temptation (see Matthew 26:41).

It is through prayer that we are strengthened and empowered. Like Jesus, who, at the beginning of His ministry, went into prayer and fasting and was tempted by the Devil in the wilderness, after which an angel ministered to Him, bringing Him strength. Even in the garden of Gethsemane, an angel came to minister and strengthen Him. For every situation, there is a strength that can be drawn in prayer. Through prayer, we can cancel the plans of Satan. In Luke 22:31-32, Satan planned to shake Simon Peter’s faith, but Jesus prayed for his faith not to fail. Hence, when we pray, it is because we understand that only God can take us out of a difficult situation that the enemy would use for our demise.

In Hebrews 5:7, we learn that throughout His life here on earth, Jesus offered prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to be rescued and God answered Him. The beauty of crying out to God is that He does not turn a deaf ear, He is the God who answers prayers. He comes to the rescue of those who cry out for His help. 

After James was killed, Peter got arrested and this created concern in the church for Peter’s life because they feared that Herod would do to him what he did to James (see Acts 12). However, their earnest prayers saved him; we are not meant to be casual with our prayers but earnest in them. Consequently, when we stop earnestly seeking God through prayer, we give room for the enemy to take advantage of us. In Exodus 17:11 we see that, whenever Moses held up his staff, the Israelites had an advantage but whenever the staff was dropped, his enemies gained an advantage. Although we may not have the same staff that Moses had, fortunately for us we have prayer; and the enemy gains an advantage when we do not pray. 

When we stop praying, confusion finds a place. There are many believers today who find themselves in confusion due to the lack of persistence in prayer; praying brings clarity and is important when making life decisions. A prayerful believer is never stunned by what strikes the eyes because they are enlightened to see the bigger picture, an example of that can be found in 2 Samuel 21:1. Therefore, when you encounter challenges that you do not understand, start seeking God first and He will be found. Not only do we receive revelation from God, but we also receive instructions on what to do from Him too.  James 5:13-16 summarises the power of prayer, emphasising that the prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful deeds. When we seek God wholeheartedly, we are guaranteed that we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13). Prayer is a platform in which we draw closer to God and receive instructions, revelation, and ideas from Him. It is through prayer that we get to partner with heaven and establish the will of God on earth. When we neglect staying in prayer, our spiritual senses deteriorate; consequently, causing a hindrance in our relationship with God and the accomplishment of His purpose here on earth. Finally, it then opens us up to a hard life which leads to disobedience and ultimately living a life full of sin. If there is little or no prayer, there is little or no vitality in your Christian life. So always remember to keep your knees down in consistent prayer. 

Joshua 1:1-9 and 1 Timothy 4:12-13

The Bible is essential for every believer because it carries what is needed to live effectively on earth, thus, it is important for Christians to consistently and regularly read the Bible. The Bible reveals God’s nature, the revelation of who He is to his people. Reading from Joshua 1:1-9 and 1 Timothy 4:12-13; it is worth noting that Joshua and Timothy were the successors of Moses and Paul respectively who were great contributors to the Bible – the former is from the old testament and the latter is from the new testament. In the book of Joshua, God tells him to obey all the instructions written by Moses and to study this book of instructions continually. On the other hand, in Timothy, Paul instructs Timothy to focus on reading the Scriptures and teaching them to the church. Both these leaders placed great emphasis on reading and meditating on the Word of God. What can be extracted from here is that studying God’s Word regularly allows the mind to be constantly renewed and readjusted, thus, being aligned to God, which allows for growth in Him and a fulfillment of purpose.

The word “Bible” literally means “book”, which was derived from Latin and Greek. The Bible was not written by one person but by multiple people (35 named authors to be exact), who all had one message, that is God’s Word. All these authors were inspired by the Author Himself, God, hence there is cohesion and no contradictions even though many of these authors did not cross paths. Moreover, it is a book that contains books and can therefore be perceived as a library of God’s knowledge, containing God’s thoughts, ideas, and ways. This means that He is the content of the writings, so it is a spiritual book; but not only is it spiritual, it is a book that contains historical accounts that have been proven accurate.

Upon opening the Bible, there’s a choice you need to make when reading it. You can either see it as just a book that contains fables, a book that contains philosophies, principles, and theories of life (with a fictional God) and you interpret it as you see fit. Nonetheless, there is a better approach to take when reading the Bible as compared to other books, and that is; it is the WORD OF GOD, and that it carries life.

The way you approach the Bible is important as it sets you up to encounter God which then makes the writings beneficial. The right attitude to approach the Bible starts with believing that it is the Word of God, thus, receiving and believing that it is true. Believe that all scripture is God-breathed. This goes to say that the Spirit of God lives in it and it has life. 2 Timothy 3:16, tells of this inspiration and further tells of its usefulness for “teaching, rebuking, correcting and for instruction in righteousness” (NKJV). Furthermore, Psalm 12:6-7 says that the word of God has been refined, having been purified seven times over, therefore, there is no impurity or faults found in it.

When you believe that it is true, there needs to be reverence, that is, to regard the Bible with awe and respect. For this to take place, it requires humility. Without humility, it will be easy to miss what God does and says, therefore, one needs to humble themselves before God. Isaiah 66:2, speaks of God looking to the ones who tremble at His word. “Tremble” in this context means to be reverently responsive (MSG). Moreover, to be responsive, the Bible has to have influence over your life.

This influence is in the form of authority – let the Bible be authoritative over life. Since God’s Word is established in heaven [see Psalm 138:2 and Psalm 119:89], then it should be established on earth; therefore it should be consulted when making choices – allowing it to have the final say.

It is not about having an opinion or choosing what you think is appropriate for you and discarding the rest. With that, there needs to be value attached to His Word – giving and treating the Bible with value. This is by giving yourself fully to the word of God; that includes your heart, your mind, and your time.

When something is valued, time is spent with it and when it lives in your heart, there’s a transformative power that takes place, compared to just having “head” knowledge of it. Psalm 119 is a good start to understanding the value and importance of God’s Word. In this chapter, 176 verses were dedicated to emphasize how important the Word of God is. Be like Peter when He chose Jesus (The Word) above everything, he told Jesus [John 6:68], “You have the Word of life, where else can I go?”

To avoid misinterpretation, misapplication, or confusion, it is important to note how to read the bible; begin by reading the Bible with the great Author. It should be about God and exactly what He wants you to think, feel and know and from there, the Holy Spirit will be the one to reveal, convict and lead you to all truth. 1 Corinthians 2:11 says that “no one can know a person’s thoughts except that person’s own spirit, and no one can know God’s thoughts except God’s own Spirit”, and to add, John 16:13-15 speaks on the Spirit of truth guiding you into all truth, bringing Christ glory through His words. When reading the Word, it is of great importance to look for Jesus with an open heart. Many times, we look for ourselves in the Bible and what tickles our ears, but that can lead to being narcissistic.

Although the Word of God is a mirror, it is best when Jesus is the one who you see in the mirror. When you find Jesus, that’s when you’ll find who you truly are and you’ll be drawn away from selfishness. Jesus teaches this in John 5:39-40 and emphasizes that the Scriptures point to Him and that He is eternal life.

Pay attention to how you read the Bible because you can be a scholar who knows the scriptures back to back and still miss the essence of God’s message. God is revealed to you through your relationship with Him. Furthermore, humbly exposing yourself to the written word of God (known as ‘logos’) and being open to Him, allows for revelation from Him (known as ‘rhema’). Also note that everything (revelation) that He will show you, is based on the principles found in the Bible.

The Bible is also very practical and not abstract or farfetched, therefore, live out the word of God. Do not only be a hearer of the word of God, but be a doer; keeping your Bible open, helps you apply it in all areas of your life. God gives us a certain lifestyle to live because He not only wants to bless us, but He wants to protect us as well.

So much emphasis is placed on the Bible because it is the Word of God and thus a platform to encounter Him; if you look for Him, you will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13). It is the Word of Life, meaning, it is the foundation of living (see Matthew 7:24). A life built on His Word will not be shaken but will withstand all winds that the world has to offer. The Word of God can be used as a measuring stick for prophecies [see 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21] and helps verify doctrines like the Bereans did when Paul preached to them [see Acts 17:11-12]. The Word also gives you the wisdom that you need for everyday living, with God’s wisdom you always have an upper hand in the world.

Acts 20:32 states that the word of God can build one up and it gives one an inheritance in Christ. So, if you do not know what is reserved for them, the devil will take advantage of you. In John 15:1-17, Jesus tells us that we should remain in Him and have His Words remain in us, and guarantees that if we ask Him anything, it will be granted. That is why it is important to keep your Bible open.